This is a superb book on the Sherman Tank that - amazingly - covers much new ground. It is a history of how the various organizations within the US Army created the Sherman, why they made the design decisions they did, how combat effective the Sherman was as a result, and how development proceeded (or didn't) as a result of that experience.

When it comes to evaluating the Sherman's combat performance, Zaloga provides a lot of statistical data from the operational research that was conducted by the US and Britain during and shortly after the war. The facts will surprise even those who think they are Sherman experts.

It includes a chapter on US Marine use in the Pacific as well as good coverage of British and Commonwealth Sherman developments and experiences. Contemporary Soviet and German armour developments and attitudes are also summarized.

Overall a great book on the Sherman in WWII and a must for anyone looking for one good source of reliable information on the subject.